international sports brands such as PRINCE , WILSON , BROOKS , and 24 others . Their stature grew further as they emerged as one of the largest dealers for Nike and Adidas in the Philippines . This marked a significant breakthrough , propelling Toby ’ s Sports into the forefront of the sporting retail landscape .
Leadership in the Retail Sector
As a prominent figure in the Philippine retail industry and a founding member of PRA , Bobby ’ s leadership extends far beyond the confines of his own business . His visionary outlook has permeated the entire retail sector , evident in the diverse range of advocacies he champions .
Reflecting on his journey with the PRA , Bobby shares , “ I joined the Chamber of Department Stores & Retailers in 1984 and became president in 1986 , marking the start of my involvement in the retail industry .” Initially named the Chamber of Department Stores & Retailers , the association later evolved into the Philippine Retailers Association in 1991 .
Throughout his tenure with the association , Bobby has been a staunch advocate for key initiatives crucial to the growth and development of the local retail industry . Notable among these are efforts to maintain a minimum investment requirement for foreign retailers in the Retail Trade Liberalization Act , safeguarding local retailers . Additionally , he has championed the introduction of a tax refund scheme for foreign tourists , the streamlining of government regulations for improved ease of doing business , and the promotion of digitalization in sari-sari stores .
When asked about his vision for the retail landscape ’ s future , Bobby consistently emphasizes the prominence of the omnichannel mode of retailing . He underscores , “ The new definition of retailing will be : serving the customer in whatever way he / she wants .”
Acknowledging the dynamic nature of the retail industry , Bobby confronts challenges and seizes opportunities head-on . He notes , “ The Philippine population is growing , and the retail industry must adapt to meet consumer demands . Local retailers face challenges from online foreign merchants and marketplaces exempted from in-store regulations like taxation duties , intellectual property laws , consumer protection , and product standards .”
Embracing change and innovation with an open mindset , Bobby welcomes the increasing competition in the evolving retail landscape . However , amidst the dynamic shifts , he consistently emphasizes the paramount importance of maintaining quality and fairness in business practices . Actively advocating for an equal level playing field , Bobby seeks to establish parity among all retail players , whether they operate online or through traditional in-store channels . His vision extends beyond fostering healthy competition ; it aims to ensure that consumers benefit from a marketplace where high-quality products adhere to established standards . In Bobby ’ s perspective , a balanced and fair environment not only nurtures genuine competition and industry growth but also guarantees consumers access to products of consistent quality .
For him , integrity stands as the core of successful business endeavors . Bobby emphatically states , “ Integrity is the most important thing in doing business . Once you lose it , it will be hard to succeed .” He underscores how the quality of business decisions is compromised without the anchor of principles such as integrity , persistence , accountability , and the like .
While Bobby ’ s ability to embrace and adapt to change has propelled both him and his business forward , he stresses that adhering to principles is equally crucial . This steadfast commitment not only grounds him and his business in their true purpose but also ripples outward , impacting and benefiting numerous others .
A Legacy of Purposeful Impact
The new definition of retailing will be : serving the customer in whatever way he / she wants .
Bobby Claudio ’ s story is more than a chronicle of personal success ; it ’ s a narrative woven with a broader vision – one that extends beyond self-interest to encompass the welfare of others . It transcends the pursuit of profit , embodying a commitment to doing good .
When contemplating the legacy he wishes to leave in the industry , Bobby articulates a profound aspiration , stating , “ I would like to leave the legacy that I was able to contribute to bringing the Philippine retail industry to world-class standards and made strong representation with government regulatory bodies to protect the interest of the industry .”
His vision doesn ’ t stop there . Bobby seeks to inspire the next generation , especially the youth and students , by encouraging entrepreneurship . “ Employment helps you , but opening your own business helps hundreds of others ,” he emphasizes .
In the narrative of Bobby ’ s journey , the lesson transcends individual success and financial gain . It becomes a testament to the enduring power of principles , illustrating that staying true to one ’ s values not only anchors a business but also becomes a catalyst for positive change , radiating far beyond its immediate sphere of influence .
Anchored in Integrity
Bobby ’ s triumph in the retail industry is not solely attributed to his tireless work ethic and determination but is equally rooted in a fundamental principle that he holds of great importance – integrity . Throughout the years and in every decision he has made , Bobby remains steadfastly guided by his unwavering commitment to integrity .
Ultimately , Bobby shares his insights as a business entrepreneur , asserting , “ Ultimate Profit is HEALTH , ultimate wealth is HAPPINESS .” In these simple yet profound words , he encapsulates the essence of a life well-lived – one that goes beyond monetary gains to prioritize the holistic well-being of individuals and the community at large .